Big data can lead us to many time saving digital resources that can greatly impact your workflow. Here's what to know about it.

Big data is changing the way we live in countless ways. We usually talk about the massive technological advances that AI and other big data technologies have brought to large companies. However, developments in data technology have also led to some important improvements for everyday consumers.

One of the biggest benefits of big data is that it saves time. You can find a number of big data platforms that were built to help consumers run their lives more efficiently.

Big Data is Making Strides in Consumer Lifestyle Efficiency

How do individuals manage all the data and documents required for living in a technological society? Businesses have sophisticated programs and apps to help them deal with the information required to earn a profit from quarter to quarter. Fortunately, the market has come up with some unique ways for people to take care of their personal business, like online school registration, e-filing of taxes and more. Big data is simplifying our lives in ways we previously didn’t expect.

Here are some of the most popular data management methods for non-corporate entities, namely individuals, who want to live life more efficiently and have more time left over for personal activities.

Social Security Cards

For most U.S. citizens, it’s now possible to get a replacement Social Security card online by filling out a form and emailing it to the SSA. For new cards, as long as you can provide proof of identity, you can also do the work via a smartphone or PC. Because the Social Security Administration is a federal agency, the process is exactly the same no matter what state you reside in.

Big data has made the process of replacing your card much easier. The government uses data technology to quickly verify your identify by matching the information that you provide.

Driver’s License Renewal

Remember what a nightmare it used to be to renew drivers’ licenses? Every U.S. state now allows you to renew from home, which wasn’t possible before big data was readily available. If you have a PC or smartphone, you can enter a few lines of identifying data and be done with it. Depending on where you live, you’ll either receive a new license in the mail or have to go pick one up in person. Most states’ departments of motor vehicles also let car owners renew their tags online, pay the appropriate fees and receive the stick-on annual patches in the mail. These two tasks often took an entire day to complete. Now, you’re looking at about 10 minutes for both.

Medical Marijuana Cards

Nicole Martin wrote an article in Forbes on ways that big data and AI are changing the cannabis industry. Some of the big data applications in this industry are obvious. However, some applications are less obvious. One benefit of big data is that is helps streamline the process of receiving or replacing a medical marijuana card.

One of the newer ways that citizens take advantage of the internet pertains to getting a medical marijuana card. After you find a reliable service, simply apply for one and wait for it to come in the mail. Then, it’s as easy as searching online for medical marijuana dispensaries near me. That way, after you have your document in hand, you’ll know exactly where to go to pick up your prescription.

Voter Registration

Fortunately, big data makes voter registration easier than ever. Vox has talked about some ways that big data is changing elections. States have massive databases on voter registration information. These databases also help voters save time while registering.

What used to be a major hassle that involved driving across town, taking a number and standing in line is now a three-minute chore that you can handle from the comfort of your living room. Every state in the U.S. now has online voter registration. Merely prove your identity by uploading a few documents on their secure server, sign the form and you’ll be able to download a voter ID card right from your own printer. Some states don’t allow downloading but will mail you the card after you fill out the on-screen application.

Applying for Student Loans

If you intend to borrow money for schooling, you probably already know about the various loan applications you need to fill out. The good news is that all of them can be taken care of from the comfort of your smartphone or computer. There are need-based and income-based versions of most education loans, so it’s often wise to apply for both. Some of the applications can take a while to complete, but you’ll get responses within a few business days if you fill out everything on the computer.

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Annie Qureshi

Annie is a passionate writer and serial entrepreneur. She embraces ecommerce opportunities that go beyond profit, giving back to non-profits with a portion of the revenue she generates. She is significantly more productive when she has a cause that reaches beyond her pocketbook.